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Exploring 'After Dark' - OMSI without kids

Nothing 'adult' about this...except, that it's OMSI, and for an evening the kids aren't there

The nonprofit Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) continues to be a delightful family destination. But, for adults, visiting with kids swirling around the facility can be daunting.

"It's true, OMSI is seen by many as a children's museum, and many adults don't what to come when the museum is packed with children and school groups – which is why our 'After Dark' events were created," explained OMSI Event Planner Sonali Shivdasani.

"At 'OMSI After Dark' – we're now in our 10th year of holding this once a month event; usually on the last Wednesday of each month – we open up, after hours, exclusively for those 21 years of age and older, so they can have fun here with other adults," Shivdasani told THE BEE. "Looking around, you'll find people having fun, which is important because science has no age!"

With disc jockeys playing music, with cash bars, and with a different theme every month, this continues to be a popular "date night".

"In addition to singles, and groups of guys and gals coming, we're told a lot of blind dates meet here, because it's a safe place to come for something fun and interesting, yet planned for adults," commented Shivdasani. "Our Turbine Hall features a mix of local food and spirit products; companies provide samples of their products, and sell them while meeting our guests."

At any given "After Dark" one might see a magician, a juggler, or an aerialist performing live. And, participants have access to all of the exhibits that are normally open during the day.

"It's amazing to me that, after a decade, so many people haven't heard about 'After Dark'," Shivdasani observed. "When they find it and come, it's fun to see them running around like kids themselves, without any kids around, having a great time with the any of the exhibits and features we offer."

If you're interesting in come to an "After Dark" at OMSI, the next one is September 26, 6-10 p.m., and the theme is "Brewfest". The Oregon Museum of Sciencce and Industry is on S.E. Water Street, on the east bank of the Willamette River just north of the Ross Island Bridge, and under the east end of the Marquam Bridge.